In Tanzania, traffic fines (commonly known as deni la gari or road offences) can catch even the most careful drivers off guard. Whether it's speeding, overloading, running a red light, or other violations caught by cameras or police, unpaid fines can lead to penalties, license suspension, or issues during vehicle inspections and renewals.
Fortunately, in 2026, the Tanzania Police Force (TPF) has made it easy to check and manage these fines digitally through the Traffic Management System (TMS) portal at https://tms.tpf.go.tz. This official Road Traffic Offence Check (RTOC) tool empowers drivers to view outstanding fines, offence details, and payment options without visiting a police station.
In this guide, we'll walk you through every step to check your fines online, pay them promptly, and avoid extra charges all updated for 2026.
Why Checking Traffic Fines Matters in Tanzania
Unpaid fines accumulate interest and can block services like:
- Vehicle registration or transfer
- Driving license renewal
- Insurance claims
- International travel or border crossings (especially for commercial drivers)
With digital enforcement growing (including more CCTV and electronic ticketing), staying on top of your record is essential for safe, compliant driving.
Official Ways to Check TMS Traffic Fines in 2026
The primary platform is the TPF's TMS/RTOC portal. Here's how to use it:
- Via the Official TMS Website (Recommended for Full Details)
- Visit the official portal: https://tms.tpf.go.tz.
- The homepage loads the Road Traffic Offence Check (RTOC) interface (JavaScript must be enabled).
- Choose your search method:
- By Vehicle Registration Number (e.g., T123ABC) – Most common for car/motorcycle owners.
- By Driving License Number – Ideal if checking personal offences not tied to one vehicle.
- By Reference Number – Use this if you have a fine ticket number.
- Enter the details accurately (case-sensitive for plates).
- Click "Search" or "Check Offences."
- The system displays:
- List of outstanding offences (date, location, violation type, fine amount).
- Payment status.
- Total due, including any penalties for delays.
- Tip: Screenshot your results for records.
Alternative Quick Checks
- USSD Code (No internet needed): Dial 15200# or 15275# from any Tanzanian mobile network (Airtel, Vodacom, Tigo, Halotel). Follow prompts to select "Traffic Fine" service, enter your vehicle or license number, and receive an SMS summary of fines.
- In-Person: Visit any traffic police station or regional office with your documents for verification.
Many drivers also use helpful third-party guides and simplified tools to make the process faster. For example, sites like TMS Check Tanzania provide step-by-step explanations, troubleshooting tips, and user-friendly interfaces to access the official TMS data quickly—great if you're on mobile or need Swahili/English support.
How to Pay Your Traffic Fines Online or Offline
Once you see your fines:
- Online Payment via GePG (Government Electronic Payment Gateway)
- From the TMS portal results, note your control/reference number.
- Go to the GePG portal (often linked) or use mobile banking apps (CRDB, NMB, NBC, etc.).
- Select "Government Payments" > "Tanzania Police Force" or "Traffic Fines."
- Enter the reference number and amount.
- Pay via mobile money (M-Pesa, Tigo Pesa, Airtel Money), bank transfer, or card.
- Receive a confirmation SMS/email once processed fines usually update in TMS within 24–48 hours.
- Other Options
- Pay at any bank branch (ask for GePG/TMS slip).
- Use mobile money agents or police stations for cash payments.
- For large amounts or disputes, contact TPF ICT support (details on the portal).
Always keep payment receipts upload or show them if issues arise.
Common Traffic Offences and Fine Amounts (2026 Estimates)
Fines vary by violation and can increase with time. Typical examples:
- Speeding: 50,000–300,000 TZS
- Overloading: 100,000–500,000 TZS
- Running red light: 100,000–200,000 TZS
- No seatbelt/helmet: 30,000–100,000 TZS
- Using phone while driving: 50,000–150,000 TZS
Check the official portal for exact current amounts, as they may adjust.
Tips to Avoid Future Fines
- Obey speed limits and road signs.
- Ensure vehicle documents (insurance, inspection) are up-to-date.
- Check your TMS record monthly, especially before long trips or renewals.
- Drive defensively many fines come from minor oversights.
- Use apps/tools like TMS Check for reminders and quick lookups.
By regularly checking via the official TMS system or helpful resources, Tanzanian drivers can stay compliant, save money on penalties, and contribute to safer roads.

Have you checked your fines recently? Share your experience in the comments—what method worked best for you?
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